Former Don Bosco Prep star Al-Quadin Muhammad, one of the state's top-ranked recruits from the Class of 2013, along with teammate Jermaine Grace were dismissed from the University of Miami on Saturday for violating NCAA rules.
According to The Miami Herald, the violation stemmed from an incident involving a luxury car-rental company that offered the players discounted cars in exchange for some future stake in their careers.
Muhammad and Grace were considered two of the best defensive players on the team. Muhammad, a defensive end, led the team in sacks a season ago and was building a resumé for the NFL Draft, according to several draft websites.
The University of Miami said it will continue to pay financial aid through graduation for its former players and offered the following statement in a press release:
“The University of Miami announced today that redshirt junior Al-Quadin Muhammad and senior Jermaine Grace have been permanently dismissed from the Hurricanes football program for violating NCAA rules. The University will, however, continue their financial aid through graduation. The decision was made in consultation with outside counsel and after discussions with the NCAA enforcement staff. As no staff members or boosters were involved in the violations, the program will not be subject to sanctions and, at this time, the University deems this matter closed.”
Before his dismissal, Muhammad, an Irvington native, missed the entire 2014 season after being suspended for his involvement in a fight following the team’s spring game.
As a senior at Don Bosco Prep, Muhammad recorded 12 sacks and forced four fumbles to earn First Team All-State honors. He was the third-ranked recruit in The Ledger 50 and the third-ranked defensive end in the country, according to Rivals.com.
Muhammad, who was also a U.S. Army All-American, chose Miami over Alabama, Notre Dame and Rutgers.
Pat Lanni may be reached at planni@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @PatLanniHS. Like NJ.com High School Sports on Facebook.